Training in the Cotswolds - Day 2

Summary of Day 2 - Cotswolds Training:

• Somewhere between 35 and 40 miles cycled - Karen's Garmin says 35 miles (here's the route: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/98257260)

• At least 3 litres of water plus electrolytes rehydration mix – much better today 

• A lot of sweaty but happy ladies 

   

Our pre-cycle briefing  on Day 2

DAY 2!!! I feel extremely cheerful writing that. I have to say that when I woke up this morning I wasn’t sure if I could cycle today. I wasn’t in pain, nothing hurt even my bottom (Lanacane plus Sweaty Betty padded cycling shorts and no knickers really does work – I’m sorry I ever doubted this). I just felt a wave of fear at getting back on the bike especially as I knew I had a big hill to do first thing. 

 

However, I did get on my bike along with 49 other brave women. If everyone else was doing the ride, well so was I! My plan to get through the day was slow and steady. I definitely didn’t want to go with Reg in the support van (no offence Reg)! The hill wasn’t as bad as I expected and once I got to the top I was able to appreciate the fantastic scenery – rolling hills and beautiful coloured flowers. The Cotswolds really is stunning.

 

Stunning views taken during a rest stop

We cycled up and down three hills, through lavender fields and we even saw the Red Arrows fly past (perhaps they heard that Women V Cancer Group 2 were in the area!). 

 

A much needed pit stop!

Lunch was a welcome break and it was a great feeling knowing that the end was insight. The last part of the ride sped by as we cycled through villages back to our starting point in Lower Quinton. Noone seemed very clear as to whether we had done 35 or 40 miles today, who cares because either way I am proud of myself. I made it – this is the furthest I have ever cycled - over 80 miles in two days is a remarkable achievement. 

 

I am also proud of the Group 2 team – I feel honoured to be part of the group. I just hope I can keep up with them all when we’re in Kenya this November...

Training in the Cotswolds - Day 1

Summary of Day 1 - Cotswolds Training:

• 48 miles cycled
• At least 3 litres of water and disgusting lucazade consumed
• 1 banging migraine 

Todays Cycle Kenya training was fantastic. The first in two days of preparatory training run by Action for Charity. Fifty seven lycre clad ladies and Ed made their way to Lower Quinton in the Cotswolds. Around 9 am this morning we were all nervous and uncertain - what did the team have planned? Would they want us to cycle hills all day? My own fear: would my bottom be fine by the end of the day?

My rental bike for the weekend.

Getting set up before the ride

It's fair to say, that as we began cycling I suddenly wished I had done more training! The morning started off well with a good 28 miles under our belts by lunchtime. It was a rather fast pace compared to my usual slow pedaling to work. Bearing in mind that I haven't cycled more than about 15 miles as 12 o'clock approached my energy was fading and I was an odd shade of white.

Sarah and Me before lunch

Lunch was at a beautiful country pub and we shared the venue with a piper and a wedding party! All a bit embarrassing when you're sweaty, have helmet hair and enormous padded shorts on. At lunch I took the opportunity to get to know my fellow cyclists. They are extremely knowledge about long distance cycling and have been fab at recommending me the best kit and essential snacks. I have a long list of things to get prior to Kenya.

I wanted to know why these women had decided to take on such a huge challenge. Their responses were inspiring and humbling. Some had loved ones who had been touched by cancer, others it was their own cancer journey that made them want to take part and for some it was the need to challenge themselves while supporting the three charities. These women have already raised thousands of pounds for the charities and in November they will be showing their support for women affected by cancer by cycling 400km - they are AMAZING.

Regrouping post a hill

Fueled by my carb based lunch I set off on my rental bike for the last 22 miles. It was not pleasant, the morning session had been fun cycling through gorgeous villages and past farmland. The afternoon was to consist of cycling up 3 consecutive steep hills. I gritted my teeth and powered up the hills to the best of my ability. The last hill was a 12% incline but I made it! In fact we all made it!

There was a great sense of achievement as we arrived back in Lower Quinton after 48 miles cycled. The most I've ever cycled in one day! I actually feel fine except for a spliting headache. Clearly I must get a better rehydration drink!

Feeling apprehensive about doing it again tmrw...wish me luck!

Half of the Women V Cancer Group 2 at the end of Training Day 1